Lottery bills get first test in Alabama Legislature

Lottery bills are getting their first test with Alabama lawmakers.

The Senate Tourism and Marketing Committee is meeting Tuesday morning for public hearings on five different lottery bills. The committee could vote as soon as Tuesday afternoon.

The proposals up for debate include Gov. Robert Bentley‘s plan to set up a lottery to fund Medicaid. However, lawmakers have introduced several rival proposals.

One would also allow electronic lottery terminals, which can resemble slot machines, at four state dog tracks, and seek a compact with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Another bill would limit a lottery to multistate games, such as Powerball, to save administration costs.

Alabama is one of six states without a lottery. However, lawmakers say the bills face an uncertain outlook in the special session.

Republished with permission of The Associated Press.